The Employment Services provided by North Jersey Friendship House are based each person's needs and abilities. Transitional Employment, Independent Placement and Supported Employment are programs that are available. During an individual’s time with us, the various areas are explored to find the best path toward community employment.
Independent Placement
Some members progress from transitional employment to independent jobs, while others are placed directly in independent jobs. The Senior Employment Specialist reviews appropriate job possibilities with each member, helping complete application forms and advising him or her on how to succeed at the job interview. Each year, more than one-third of North Jersey Friendship House’s members begin jobs in the community.
Supported Employment
Some members respond more positively to an individualized employment approach. The Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) refers individuals to North Jersey Friendship House’s Supported Employment Program.
Our program components: Pre-Placement, Job Coaching and Long Term Follow Along offer support based on each member’s needs. These components can be particularly helpful for those individuals who may not need our in-house program but provide the support services necessary for obtaining and sustaining the skills needed for community employment.
Pre-Placement - The Job Coaching staff assists members with resume writing, application completion, and interviewing skills, and conducts an employment search to secure an appropriate match. This allows individuals to have supported services when they may not require the other components of supported employment.
Job Coaching - The Job Coaching staff works with the member at the work site; teaching hands-on skills needed to succeed as well as educating the employer about the member’s abilities and challenges. The Job Coach also addresses any behaviors, socialization and communication issues that may be affecting the member’s overall performance.
Long Term Follow Along (If needed) - The Job Coaching staff continues to provide ongoing supportive services in order for the members to maintain community employment.
